National Volunteer Week
May 15 to 21 marks National Volunteer Week, an annual celebration recognising the vital support that the millions of volunteers in our country provide to their communities – including for organisations like RSPCA Victoria.
The theme of this year’s National Volunteer Week is The Change Makers. There is no doubt that our 1,708 volunteers make a positive change each and every day, whether they are supporting the daily care and enrichment of shelter animals, providing respite from shelter life through foster care, assisting customers in our Op Shops, helping at events like our upcoming Million Paws Walk, in many administrative areas across the organisation and much more.
It is thanks to the continued dedication, compassion, and patience of our volunteers that we’ve remained operational for over 150 years, providing high-quality care and support to animals in need.
To our volunteers – thank you for all you contribute to our vision in ending cruelty to all animals. Your time and skills are invaluable to our organisation, and we – and our animals – are fortunate to have your support.
Please join us in celebrating the good will of RSPCA Victoria’s incredible volunteers by taking a moment to watch this special video message…
Meet some of our amazing volunteers!
Carol
Clinic volunteer at RSPCA Burwood
“I’ve been volunteering here now for over 15 years. What I love most about volunteering at the RSPCA is that I come to Vet Clinic, I do a job, I’m with other people and I’m always made welcome. I feel like I’m part of the team. Everyone is very friendly.
My proudest achievement is that I can free up the vet nurses so they can focus on their care of the animals.”
Kathy
Corporate Support Day volunteer at RSPCA Burwood
“I’ve been volunteering with the RSPCA for one year. I’m a volunteer for the Corporate Support Days and I also help out in the Barn, Kennels, Cattery and Education.
I help show the Corporate Support participants some of the tasks that are done at the RSPCA and then they do some of the work for us, which is fantastic because it really helps.”
Tristan
Animal Attendant volunteer at RSPCA Peninsula
“I’m a volunteer in Cattery and Kennels and I’ve been here about 8 months. I started volunteering because I’ve always wanted to help animals.
What I’m enjoying most is helping the cats, especially the shy and timid ones, come out of their shell so they’re ready to be adopted. One of my proudest moments has been adopting my own cat and giving her a good home. She loves it!”
Lisa
Foster Carer at RSPCA Peninsula
“I’ve been a volunteer for just under one year. My role involves looking after kittens and cats in my home and taking them to appointments, looking after their medical needs and giving them love and cuddles!
One of my proudest moments as a volunteer was when one of my long-term fosters was finally adopted after six and a half months.”
Neelesh
Board Member for RSPCA Victoria
“I’ve been a volunteer for just over 4 years. My role encompasses working with the Board and as Chair of the Audit, Risk & Finance Committee.
The team we have at RSPCA is one of the most compassionate, dedicated and motivated teams I’ve ever worked with. They’re fantastic. It gives a sense of purpose in terms of how well we’re able to look after animals.”
Lyn
Op Shop volunteer at Mornington
“I’ve been a volunteer at Mornington for two years and I plan on being here for the long term!
The thing I enjoy most about volunteering is the mateship. I love the girls that I work with, having fun with customers, I’m making firm friendships and our proceeds go to a good cause. I have to do something for the animals.”
Lisa
Animal Attendant volunteer at RSPCA Wangaratta
“I’ve been volunteering at Wangaratta for 18 months. My role involves working with the animals, particularly the dogs – my favourite! I’ve always loved working with animals. I love it!
I most enjoy spending time with the animals, giving them my love! My proudest moments are knowing when they get adopted. You’ve spent that time with them and then see them go to a new home.”
